When it comes to the best compact SUVs on the market, the Toyota RAV4 tops the segment list. For the 2026 Toyota favors hybrid powertrain and plug-in hybrid. The hybrid powertrain offers 236 horsepower, while the PHEV hybrid has up to 324 horsepower.
The interior features a setup for up to five people and has plenty of space for the cargo. The 2026 RAV4 is expected to compete with hybrid versions such as the Honda CRV and Kia Sportage, among others.
Power and Performance
For the RAV4 hybrid, it’s powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine aided with two electric motors that produce a combined 226 horsepower. The front wheel is standard, and if you get to opt in for all-wheel drive, it gets an additional electric motor, which will drive the rear axle. The additional motor increases the horsepower to 236 hp.
The RAV4 PHEV features all-wheel drive, which is standard, and has a lot of horsepower—about 320. The GR Sport trim will be the sportiest for its suspension fine-tuned by Toyota Gazoo Racing, receiving summer tires, and having a reworked steering system.
0 to 60 MPH times
For the all-wheel-drive RAV4 hybrid, from 0 to 60 mph, it accomplishes it in 7.1 seconds, quicker than its previous model, and the plug-in hybrid is estimated to cover 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds.
Fuel Economy and MPG
Toyota estimates that the new RAV4 will get 44 MPG as an LE hybrid model. Other hybrid RAV4 models are estimated at 39 mpg and 42 mpg. That means that the RAV4 plug-in hybrid, the SE, and the XSE are estimated at 41 mpg combined, the Woodland at 38 mpg, and the GR Sport at 37 mpg.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The front-wheel-drive RAV4 and the all-wheel-drive RAV4 LE trim can now tow 1750 pounds, and other models provide up to 3500 pounds max towing capacity.
Range and Charging
The plug-in hybrid models boast an electric driving range of up to 52 miles per charge; the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent within 30 minutes’ time on DC fast chargers. For SE PHEV and GR Sport PHEV models may require more time to charge up.
Interior and Cargo
The dashboard receives a blocky design language, giving it a rugged look. The center console hosts several storage bins, and in some models you will find a low-profile Google-type lever for the shifter, saving space and allowing easier access to the items stored in bins.
The sporty-looking XSE and GR Sport feature faux suede seat coverings with red stitching, while other models may either come with cloth or faux leather upholstery. Inside the RAV4, it’s so spacious, providing comfortable space for adults in both front and rear seats, while the cargo area behind the rear seats can accommodate 10 carry-on suitcases and about 24 suitcases when the rear seats are folded.
Infotainment
The new 2026 RAV4 receives a 10.5-inch infotainment display, which is standard, and a larger 12.9-inch display is optional. The system has Bluetooth support, is able to connect two smartphones at the same time, and has wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The gauge cluster is digital, comprising a standard 12.3-inch display, and if you would like to have a heads-up display, you will have to go for the Limited trim or the 2026 RAV4 XSE trim. The base model comes with a six-speaker stereo, but a nine-speaker JBL setup is optional.
Safety and Driver Assistance Technology
Specific details on the Driver Assistance features haven’t been released, but we would see features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control in it. You can visit to see the RAV4 hybrid crash test by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Pricing
The pricing of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is expected to start at $33,350, going up to $51,000, and it will depend on the trim and options.
